Lightening McQueen and Sally strike up romance in the Disney movie Cars
And, Can It Help You Find the Perfect Partner?
So this really happened: While putting gas in the Mustang 5.0 6-speed I was test driving, a guy came up to ask me about it. I answered his questions and he gave me a fist bump and a huge compliment. Here’s the video. And, yes, I was a geek wearing a body camera, but that was so I could show you the capless gas tank! Yes, a sexy car can be the ticket to romance…if you’re looking.
While this didn’t lead to a date (I’m happily married) it certainly lead to a conversation. And as we all know, great conversations can lead to romance. So can your car help you get your love life on track?
Yes, It Can, and No, It’s Not Shallow
Don’t think men don’t consider which cars will catch a girl’s attention, or that they don’t look at your sexy car as much as they’re checking out your, um, eyes. Cars that impress get attention and start a conversation. But, you want the right kind of attention (genuine), to send the right kind of message (I’m smart) with the right kind of car (one that you can live with all the time).
The Alfa Romeo 4C is certainly an attention getter but is it it practical? Photo: Scotty Reiss
Which Car Will Get The Right Attention?
Of course, you’ll get attention in a sexy car like a Lamborghini or an Alfa Romeo 4C (pictured above). But if you’re not in the market for a guy who will drool over the car more than you, think a little deeper: What exactly about a car will start the conversation you want to have? What should you consider when car shopping? And, are there cars at every budget level that will accomplish this? The variety of cars and the availability of great features at any price make the answers plentiful but complicated. So here’s what to consider:
Surprisingly sexy, the Outback Subaru, and the man (not surprisingly!) Photo: Terri Marshall
What Type of Girl Are You?
What life do you live? Adventurous? Luxurious? Sustainable? Travel with an entourage? We all know that a minivan says “My children are the focus of my life.” But what do other cars say? A Jeep Wrangler says “I’m heading out to climb a mountain but I will drive halfway up it first,” while a Subaru says “I’m living gently but capably on this earth.” Decide what you want people to see.
The 2017 Jaguar XF S was right at home on Greenwich Avenue in Greenwich CT. Photo: Scotty Reiss
What Sort of Romance Are You Looking For?
Romantic weekends off the grid and under stars? A pick up such as the Toyota Tundra, can be a great conversation starter. First, it’s seen as unusual for a girl to drive a truck, as silly as that is. But with four wheel drive and ample towing capacity, a truck can take you on the road to adventure and provide enough cargo space to haul your tent and gear, too.
If you’re more of the 5-star hotel type, consider a hot new luxury car such as the Jaguar XF or the Genesis G80. There is a lot of curiosity around these cars and their appointments. And we can attest, spend a little time in them and you’ll gush with great information about them; they offer everything except a butler, and they both practically offer that, too!
A little more badass: The Cadillac ATS-V. Photo: Scotty Reiss
Is Your Car a Conversation Starter?
If you’re not much of a ‘car girl,’ here’s our guide to help you ramp up. Once you’re up to speed and in a conversation-starting car, be ready for questions. While test driving the Cadillac ATS-V, a fun (460 horsepower 6-speed stick shift) and fairly practical (four doors) sports car, not one but THREE men stopped me to talk about it. One even grinned and said, as I got out of the car, “I knew it had to be a woman like you driving this car.” I’m not sure what he meant by that; I was stopping into Starbucks after school drop off and I’m pretty sure I wasn’t wearing makeup or a mini skirt.
Know Your Car’s Talking Points
Once the conversation starts, be able to hold your own. Know your car’s features and try out all its technology, from safety features to entertainment to performance systems. Being able to say with authority, yes it’s a 4-cylinder turbo and why (turbos are a more efficient way to get more power and better fuel economy from a small engine) is a confidence-builder. And, you’ll find out if he’s as knowledgeable as he seems.
There is nothing unromantic about the space, pampering and comfort in the Chrysler Pacifica. Photo: Scotty Reiss
Your Car Can Help Rekindle the Spark, too
I’m sure we don’t have to go far here: A babysitter, the Chrysler Pacifica, a drive-in movie and reclining seats. Hullo regular date night!
But also consider the Cadillac CT6: Massaging heated and cooled seats in front AND back. Or the Mazda MX5 with room for two and a small suitcase in the trunk. With parameters like that, you’re never on the hook for a third wheel.
There’s no better getaway car than the 2017 Infiniti Q60 Coupe; it’s gorgeous lines and stunning interior ensure the next adventure is not far away. Photo: Scotty Reiss
And When the Romance Isn’t Working Out, Your Car Will Help You Escape
If there’s anything your car should do for you, its protect you from unwanted hits. When the conversation takes an unwelcome turn, when the romance fades or when it’s time to move on, your trusty ride is there for you. And ready to help you find your next adventure.
Scotty Reiss
Latest posts by Scotty Reiss (see all)
- 9 of the Best 3 Row SUVs – From Luxury to Affordable - October 25, 2020
- 2020 Lincoln Aviator Review: The Innovative, Thoughtful Luxury 3-Row SUV That Considers How You Live - October 25, 2020
- Finally, Genesis Has an SUV and It’s a Home Run: 2021 Genesis GV80 - October 22, 2020
Leave a Reply